Headwaters biogeochemistry focused on different rainfall-runoff conditions, and the role of waterlogged areas: a comparative study of Czech mountains

ABSTRACT

This study focuses on changes of biogeochemical parameters related to variable rainfall-runoff conditions and to land cover types for eight headwater catchments in Central Europe. Linear regression, Spearman rank correlation, principal component analysis and C/Q (concentration – discharge) hysteresis loops revealed the main relationships. The presence of peatbogs and waterlogged spruce forests had a decisive influence on the biogeochemistry (COD = chemical oxygen demand measured using the permanganate method_Mn, humins, Fe, P-PO₄³⁻ TP = total phosphorus, N-NO₃⁻). The strongest positive correlation of organic matter and Fe is represented in a catchment with the largest area of damaged forest (70%), but with a smaller proportion of waterlogged areas (8%). High flow rates influence greater release of organic matter and N-NO₃⁻. The catchment with the highest (80%) peatbog cover and the catchment that had undergone revitalization showed similar behaviour in terms of water biogeochemistry. The type of rainfall-runoff event affected the velocity of pH changes, whereas the variability in electric conductivity was also controlled by the catchment characteristics and hydrological preconditions.

KEYWORDS:

• headwater areas
• organic matter
• waterlogged areas
• peatbogs
• rainfall-runoff events
• water quality

Editor S. Archfield Associate Editor K. Ryberg

Editor S. Archfield Associate Editor K. Ryberg

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported by the Charles University Grant Agency under project No. 1408618: “Changes of biogeochemistry of watercourses in headwater areas”; the Czech Science Foundation under project No. 19-05011S: “Spatial and temporal dynamics of hydrometeorological extremes”; and from specific university research (SVV260573).